Councils celebrate achieving White Ribbon status
Posted on Thursday 12th February 2015
White Ribbon ambassadors Daniel Fisher and Dan Cooke with domestic abuse co-ordinator Karon Eyers
A ceremony was held today to recognise the awarding of White Ribbon status to Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen councils.
The White Ribbon campaign in the UK is part of a worldwide movement to end violence against women.
It was established by a group of men who pledged never to condone it or stand by when they know it is happening.
As part of the campaign, people pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about men's violence against women in all its forms.
Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport and Torfaen councils all pledged support for the campaign and drew up action plans aimed at combatting violence against women.
Chris Green, executive director of White Ribbon UK, spoke to the invited audience in The Parkway Hotel, Cwmbran, and presented the awards to representatives from each of the councils.
He said: "The five councils were pioneers on this issue in Wales and we are very pleased that 95 per cent of Welsh authorities have now signed up. This has created a surge of activity throughout the country and has set an excellent example for the rest of Europe."
Blaenau Gwent Council's chief executive David Wagget said: "The Local Service Board has a clear domestic abuse strategy, which is shaped by the people of Blaenau Gwent, for the people of Blaenau Gwent. We must never be complacent about the effects of domestic abuse. We recognise that we cannot deal with it alone, we need your help - so please look out for the White Ribbon, spread the word and make your pledge."
Councillor Robin Woodyatt, cabinet for social services at Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: "In Caerphilly county borough we're committed to raising awareness of domestic abuse in all forms, and in doing so, we hope to encourage those who may be suffering in silence to have the courage to come forward and seek support. We're very proud to have achieved White Ribbon status and will continue to work proactively alongside our partners to help combat domestic violence in all forms in our county borough".
Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member with responsibility for equalities said: "One in four women will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime and we are determined to help tackle this. We are sending a loud and clear message that violence to women and girls is repugnant and there is no place for it in today's civilised society. We call upon all other men to make a stand and speak out about this.
Councillor Bob Bright, leader of Newport City Council, said: "We were very proud to be one of the first councils in Wales to achieve White Ribbon status. It is important that we take a strong stance against violence not just in words but by taking positive steps to tackle this issue through a plan of action."
Councillor Richard Clark, executive member for health, social car and well-being for Torfaen County Borough Council, said: "We are committed to delivering a collaborative domestic abuse strategy for Gwent which will help prevention, intervention and raise awareness on a regional basis. As part of this commitment, Torfaen staged the first national conference on domestic abuse for service providers and professionals in Wales in 2013.
Ambassadors and community representatives attended the event including young people who explained why they had signed the White Ribbon pledge.
The 24-hour All Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline can be contacted on 0808 80 10 800. In Newport, victims and professionals can also contact the city's domestic abuse unit for advice and guidance on 01633 210920.